Skeletal changes in dentists and farmers in Finland

Abstract

Two groups were studied: dentists and farmers from the Turku area. Radiologic examination of both groups included the spinal column, rib cage and shoulder joint. Spondylosis of the cervical spine was present in 68 (52.1%) of the dentists and 59 (19.2%) of the farmers. Lumbar spondylosis was more common among farmers than among dentists in the corresponding age group. Changes in the shoulder joint occurred significantly more often in dentists than in farmers. The findings in this study indicate that dentists appear to belong to the group doing heavy work.